Dean Poll Calls Gallagher's Tired, Promises Tweaks

Dean Poll, Marlene Brody and Gallagher's fan Paul Shaffer

With the new year comes a fresh start for Gallagher’s Steakhouse, where former owner Marlene Brody officially handed over the reins to Dean Poll, proprietor of Central Park Boathouse. The gesture - fitting, considering Mrs. Brody’s plans to devote her time solely to her beloved thoroughbred racehorses - is a sign of the confidence she has in Poll. “I’m very excited. It’s in very good hands,” she says of the restaurant her late husband acquired 49 years ago. “This year will be it’s 86th anniversary and he’ll take it to its 100th.”

Taken place in the upstairs trophy room, filled with pictures of celebrities and sports memorabilia, Poll hinted that change was on the horizon. “I believe Gallagher’s to be a part of New York. But it’s tired. And great history is not entitled to a great future.” In the next couple weeks, Poll’s plan is to “digest” the restaurant and observe the clientele before bringing in the architects. He promises that “all the iconic stuff will remain the same," and that diners will still recognize the joint's old-time vibe.

In the meantime, Gallagher’s fans remain true, with regular Paul Shaffer (his order: oxtail soup, two baskets of chips, and a Coke) begging, “Please keep the soup!”